In my late twenties, I was being told that I should focus on one particular profession or interest, as having many of them in life may sabotage my future.

On one hand, I wanted to take that advice because it came from someone who is rather accomplished in her profession. But on the other hand, I felt that is NOT the answer for me and I felt there is a bigger story behind it all.

But I just didn’t know how to articulate and explain all the connections between my choices and subsequent experiences.

I was tormented by 2 imaginary scenes:

A.) In the not-so-near future, someone would say something behind my back along the lines of this: “What a waste of potentials, she could have done better with her life.” 

B.) In my old age and set ways, I sadly regret what I didn’t dare to do and be true to “Who I am” but became the person who others expected me to be.

I have to admit, it was a challenging time in my life.

I was really eager to find out my passion and purpose of life so that I can work REALLY hard on them and to prevent the two scary imaginary scenarios from happening. I wished I was one of those who just KNEW what they want to do when they grow up, full of purpose and fueled with passion.

However, that was not my path, nor the right learning progression for my life. 

Other people’s opinion is just an opinion. Trust your inner knowing.

Years ago, I graduated from prestigious universities and started my career as an economist. But before long, I went into TV & media and a few years later I got hired as a consultant. So it may look like I was all over the map. On the side, I slowly found my passion in learning about spirituality and living in a more conscious manner. Various life experiences (both good AND bad), mentors and self-reflection lead me there. All the jobs and major life events have built and shaped me into the person that I needed to be. The time it took and mistakes I made are all for my own learning, and probably, benefits too. Eventually, I became a transformational coach, speaker and author in the field of personal development.Looking back, I have to say even though it was hard at times, I have followed my bliss and I am feeling deeply inspired and grateful about my life now.

In the years I was trying to “figure it out”, I realized we don’t have to try so hard and to be 1000% sure, our passion and purpose will be revealed to us, simply follow your interest or curiosity and follow through with actions. Most importantly, listen to your inner voice not everyone's opinions.

Finding your passion and purpose in life is an inside job and it takes time

What I have learned in my own hard-earned self-exploration is that finding your passion and purpose is an inside job. There are numerous books and talks advocating how important that is, and all the “how-to” ways to find your passion or purpose. They may help you to “look” in the right direction, but ultimately, you can’t rely on any tests or advice from anyone, it is an inner learning experience.

You have to come to an inner knowing what is calling you and what it may translate into.  It took some time, but step-by-step, I came to KNOW myself in a way no one can ever tell me so. I love doing what I do, and I am no longer a hostage of my own fear about under-achievement or misalignment with who I really am.

Passion and Purpose in Life can be related or simply co-exist, without being the same thing. 

First of all, we may have a purpose or calling that is related to work ...